Globe Strengthens Bacolod’s 5G Network as the City of Smiles Celebrates MassKara Festival 2025

BACOLOD CITY, October 2025 – As Bacolod celebrates the MassKara Festival, Globe powers the celebration with reliable, high-speed 5G connectivity, underscoring its strong support for the City of Smiles.

More than a celebration of music and masks, MassKara represents the Bacolodnon spirit of resilience and optimism. This same spirit drives Globe to keep building stronger, faster, and more meaningful connections that enable progress and empower communities.

“MassKara is all about joy, connection, and resilience, the same values that define Globe,” said Roche Vandenberghe, Chief Marketing Officer at Globe. “We’re proud to bring world-class connectivity, including Globe 5G, to Bacolod, so everyone can share their stories, celebrate, and go forward together.”

This year, Globe is ensuring that every smile and every story from MassKara can be shared in real time through expanded 5G coverage across Bacolod City. To support the surge of festival-goers, the company has boosted network capacity through additional broadband lines in major activity zones, including Lacson Street, SM Bacolod, Robinsons, Paglaum Sports Complex, and the Public Plaza. These enhancements guarantee smooth livestreams, quick uploads, and seamless connectivity throughout the celebrations.

Bacolod and Negros Occidental now have more than 300 Globe cell sites, including 5G, providing fast and dependable coverage across the province. In 2025, Globe is expanding further with more than 30 5G improved sites, reinforcing Bacolod’s position as a 5G-powered digital hub in the Visayas.

Across Negros Oriental, Globe operates over 100 sites, bringing the total to nearly 600 Globe cell sites across the island. This makes Negros one of the most connected provinces in the country, supporting both everyday life and large-scale events like MassKara.

To complement its network upgrades, Globe is enhancing the festival experience through the GlobeOne app, which serves as an all-in-one digital companion for visitors. From October 17 to 19, festival-goers can drop by the Globe Festival Experiential Platform along Lacson Street to spin the “Wheel You Win,” redeem Globe Rewards for personalized MassKara merchandise, join the GFiber’Oke and enjoy fun games and raffles.

Arriving passengers at the Bacolod-Silay Airport from October 13 to 17 are also welcomed by Globe SIM booths, helping them stay connected from the moment they land. The celebration peaks on October 17 with the G Music Fest at Capitol Lagoon, featuring performances by The Dukes, Earl Agustin, and Infinite Ridge, bringing together locals and visitors for a night of music, smiles, and connection.

Globe’s partners GCash, Jollibee and Pettr add more excitement through on-ground activities, prizes, and exclusive experiences that make MassKara brighter and more connected than ever.

As the festivities conclude, Globe’s network continues to drive Bacolod’s growth in tourism, education, retail, and logistics. With each new 5G build, Globe helps ensure that the city’s smiles stay connected, strong, and future-ready.

For more information about Globe, visit www.globe.com.ph.

Dare to Switch: LIFT Brings the Challenge to MassKara 2025

Bacolod, Philippines, 16 October 2025– This year’s MassKara Festival is about to get even more exciting as LIFT, the newest drink from Coca-Cola Philippines, joins the celebration with its first major festival activation. From October 17 to 19, festival-goers can visit the LIFT booth along Lacson Street and take on the brand’s signature “Dare to Switch” challenge, a call to embrace new experiences and celebrate every mode of life.

The booth will feature a lineup of fast-paced games and challenger activities designed to bring out everyone’s competitive side. Participants can race against the clock, beat high scores, and win exclusive prizes in true LIFT fashion: bold, confident, and always ready for what’s next.

Visitors can also drop by for free samples of LIFT and join interactive mini-games throughout the weekend. Whether you are with your barkada, your team, or just exploring on your own, the LIFT booth promises a fun, high-spirited stop where you can unwind, play, and switch things up.

Do not miss the chance to Dare to Switch this MassKara. Visit the LIFT booth on Lacson Street, join the challenge, enjoy your free drink, and take part in the celebration.

Follow LIFT Philippines on Facebook and Instagram for updates and festival highlights.

Dare to Switch: LIFT — The New Drink for the Always‑On Generation

Bacolod, Philippines, 23 September 2025-- Life these days? It’s a constant switch up. One minute you’re grinding on school or work, next you’re vibing with your crew, then jumping into an all-night game or passion project. Filipinos are pros at shifting modes—and now there’s a new drink in town made exactly for that: LIFT! 

Meet LIFT—Coca-Cola Philippines’ newest drink for the modern-day challengers. It isn’t your usual fizzy drink. LIFT Is like a mindset in a can, a new invigorating drink made to match your pace, your flow, your hustle, and your chill. It’s for the go-getters who are always in motion, whether they’re students owning a new semester, professionals chasing a promotion, or creators building their passion projects on the side.

Made with Vitamin B3, Zinc, and Caffeine, LIFT is more than a quick pick-me-up. It’s crafted to help you lock in and stay sharp, giving you the focus and extra push to own your every mode. It’s not about chasing energy; it’s about owning your (“LIFT”) mode. The newest, coolest drink in town isn’t here to play it safe. It’s bold, versatile, and built for multi-hyphenates—people who run the show in different arenas and still find time to show up.

“With LIFT, we’re giving today’s generation a drink that’s as adaptable as they are,” said Frenissa Mae Lagman, Frontline Marketing Senior Director of Coca-Cola Philippines. “It’s for people who play different roles and still find a way to make every moment count. LIFT is here to help you get int your zone and make a statement with every step you take.”

Leading the charge is Ruru Madrid—actor, performer, and a true multi-mode player. Whether he’s on set, on stage, or just hanging out with friends, Ruru embodies the “LIFT” Vibe: always ready, always in motion, and always bringing his A-game. 

Whatever your mode—study mode, hustle mode, game mode, barkada mode—switch it up with LIFT. Get your first taste for just PHP 11 SRP at sari-sari stores across Western Visayas.

Ready to conquer what’s next? Dare to switch to LIFT.

Want in on more “LIFT” Mode stories? Follow us on Facebook and Instagram and join the convo or visit https://www.coca-cola.com/ph/en. #LIFTModeNaYan

Show Off Your Hidden Talent at the Tanduay Bacolod Rhum Festival with the #NatatagongGaling Online Challenge

Get ready to shine! 

Tanduay is calling on all singers and dancers, whether you’re from Bacolod or beyond, to join the #NatatagongGaling Online Challenge, part of this year’s Tanduay Bacolod Rum Festival happening this August 28-31 in celebration of global Rum Month.

Bacolod Mayor Greg Gasataya expressed his excitement for the initiative: “The Rum Festival is not only a celebration of Bacolod’s world-class rum, but also of the creativity and talent of our people. I encourage everyone -- young and old, here in Bacolod and beyond -- to take part in the #NatatagongGaling Challenge and be part of this exciting celebration.”

Joining is easy:

1. Pick your best song or dance—just make sure it’s in the Facebook, Instagram, or TikTok music libraries. (Singers, we recommend using instrumental or videoke tracks.)

2. Record your 30-second to 1-minute video and give it your all!

3. Post on your socials as a reel or video, tag @Tanduay Rum Festival, and don’t forget the hashtags #NatatagongGaling and #TanduayBacolodRumFestival.

The best entries will be invited to perform LIVE at the Tanduay Bacolod Rum Festival Music Fest Night on August 30 -- your chance to hit the big stage and vibe with the festival crowd.

“This challenge is all about discovering raw, authentic talent,” said Edzel Ty, Brand Manager, Tanduay Brands International. “We know so many out there have amazing voices and moves just waiting to be seen. The Bacolod Rum Festival is the perfect stage to let that hidden talent shine.”

The Tanduay Bacolod Rum Festival was launched in 2019 in partnership with the City of Bacolod to celebrate the city’s sugarcane heritage and its close link to rum-making. Now an annual tradition, the festival brings together food, music, artistry, and mixology in a vibrant showcase of Bacolod’s culture and creativity. Held every August to mark Rum Month worldwide, the event has grown to become one of the city’s most anticipated celebrations, highlighting Tanduay -- recognized as the World’s Number 1 Rum--and its deep connection to Bacolod and Negros Occidental.

Don’t just scroll—get in the groove, hit record, and show the world your #NatatagongGaling.

Follow @Tanduay Rum Festival on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok for updates.

Citadines Bacolod City: Unlocking Potential in Panay Region’s Hospitality Sector

Philippines, 3rd November 2023 – The Ascott Limited, a leading international hospitality company, will be redefining the industry once again with Citadines Bacolod City, the newest addition to its roster of properties. Located in the heart of Bacolod.  The premier-serviced residence, which marks Ascott's maiden entry into the city, is positioning itself as a game-changer in the local hospitality scene.

Bacolod City, known as the "City of Smiles" is a vibrant and progressive urban center located in the province of Negros Occidental, Philippines. It is the capital city of the province and serves as its economic, cultural, and administrative hub. The city’s rapid urbanization has had a significant impact on its tourism and hospitality sector, transforming it into a thriving destination that attracts both domestic and international travelers.

Gearing up for 2024, Citadine’s targeted venture is Bacolod’s well-celebrated Masskara festival, which attracts tourists from all over the world. A part of their preparation was the exclusive VIP Night last October 19, which welcomed special guests Mr. Jose Franco Soberano, COO of Cebu Landmasters, Mr. Mathias Bergundthal, Director of SLI Hotels and Resorts, and Mr. Alec Lsutre, President of Capitaine Inc. The event gave a peek into the fun and excitement Citadines has planned for the upcoming year, featuring Masskara performers all night long - drummers, dancers, and singers - giving Bacolod a taste of what’s to come. 

The VIP Night also explored “How Citadines will Change the Hospitality Landscape in Bacolod” with Ascott General Manager Philip Barnes, opening with an optimistic eye for the upcoming opening.

The Citadines brand is committed to providing a seamless blend of convenience, comfort, and connectivity to cater to the diverse needs of both business and leisure travelers. Each Citadines property exudes a distinct style and character, reflecting the local culture and community, while maintaining a consistent philosophy of “bringing you to the city, and the city to you”. 

Looking forward to its opening in 2024, A property viewing was also integrated to boast the array of world-class amenities designed to elevate the guest experience. Showcasing the infinity pool, which offers stunning views of Bacolod's skyline, and the fully equipped fitness center to cater to health and wellness enthusiasts. Citadines excites everyone with a teaser of their several restaurants. For those wanting to try out local cuisines and regional specialties, stop by Citadines’ Negrense, your one-stop destination for all the delicacies Negros Occidental. The property’s team of chefs will collaborate with local cooks to deliver flavors unique to each city in the region. 

Viennoiserie and Italian, Citadines Bacolod City’s lobby café and bakery, will treat guests with an irresistible blend of aromatic coffee experiences through its collaboration with Coffee Culture, a popular and innovative artisan coffee roaster of local and imported beans. Aligning with the property’s brand signature, “for the love of coffee”, guests can choose from a menu inspired by the local coffee culture and leisurely enjoy food and beverages in an ambiance that radiates comfort and sophistication. Viennoiserie and Italian’s skilled baristas are devoted to transforming each cup of coffee into a journey of flavors, using carefully sourced beans that reflect the essence of the region's coffee heritage.

The property also boasts a selection of versatile event spaces, thoughtfully designed to accommodate a wide range of gatherings and occasions, such as a grand ballroom. This part of the property provides a spacious and versatile venue, making it an ideal Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) destination in the region. With its state-of-the-art facilities and adaptable layout, this pillarless marvel is poised to be a true game-changer in the MICE industry in the area, setting new standards for elegance, flexibility, and sophistication in event spaces.

"As a property managed by The Ascott Limited, Citadines Bacolod City exemplifies our commitment to providing a seamless blend of comfort, convenience, and top-notch service," said Philip Barnes, the Ascott Limited’s Country General Manager. "We are delighted to bring this exceptional brand to Bacolod City and offer travelers a sophisticated stay experience."

The property’s strategic location puts it in close proximity to several of the city’s key amenities and facilities. This includes some of Bacolod City’s top universities, shopping malls, central business districts, and restaurants. Citadines Bacolod City’s central location makes it an attractive choice for business and leisure travelers seeking a well-connected base to explore the city's vibrant offerings.

Along with Bacolod’s rapid urban growth, Citadines Bacolod City’s establishment in the city can help pave the way for further economic boon for the area as a whole. The property’s capacity to become a MICE destination leader in the region can significantly contribute to the city’s revenue generation, business opportunities, and diversification of income. It can also help maintain the region’s occupancy levels, especially during special cultural events like the Masskara Festival, and promote the Ascott brand to the Visayas region.

In terms of future growth, Ascott believes Citadines Bacolod City presents a steep growth potential in the coming years. With Bacolod's popularity as a travel and business hub continuing to soar, the property is well-equipped to cater to the increasing demand for sophisticated accommodations and events facilities. Through its establishment in Bacolod, Ascott aims to strengthen its brand presence in the Panay area by exploring opportunities for expansion and enhancing guest experiences in other key cities within the region.

As Citadines Bacolod City opens its doors to the public, the property invites guests to indulge in a world-class stay experience, backed by Ascott's legacy of exceptional service and unparalleled hospitality. Guests can reserve and advance and look out for updates by visiting the property’s official website and the following social media pages, Facebook and Instagram.

Negros Season of Culture takes on Old World Charm

Old World Charm

It’s never the ancestral house itself, not even the intricate wood carvings no matter their uniqueness and value, but the stories of lives lived and interwoven within these structures. These provide the romance, the appeal, the Old World charm of Negrense heritage.

November 5 being a provincial holiday in Negros Occidental, celebrating history and patriotism depicted in the declaration of the Negros Republic more than a century ago, the Negros Season of Culture chooses to spotlight the Old World charm of Negrense culture.

We have three features of note. Greg Urra, born and raised in Bacolod City, embraces fashion from old cultures and turns them into pop. Greg’s creations, under the brand name Vintage Black Label, are regularly featured at the Manhattan Vintage Show. See his great concoctions in our story, Old Culture, Pop Culture.

Old Culture, Pop Culture

A great story on heritage home restoration is our feature, Faith, Family, Food. Found in historic Silay City, just north of Bacolod, the house of Jose “Pitong” Ledesma and wife, Anita Locsin, has recently been restored to its glorious origins. And it will be adapted to new use, as Negrense restaurateur Tony Boy Escalante (of Tagaytay’s Antonio’s and Balay Dako) has leased the property from the Ledesma family.

Over Fields of Dreams

Finally, down south, in Binalbagan town, we have an outstanding example of adaptive reuse. The ancestral house of Carmen Yulo and husband, Sabas Locsin, has since been acquired by a school. In Over Fields of Dreams, we get insights on how modern-day work functions can exist side by side heritage features.

iQor Continues to Bring Jobs Closer to Home as it Expands its Call Centers in Davao, Philippines

iQor Continues to Bring Jobs Closer to Home as it Expands its Call Centers in Davao, Philippines

Tech-Enabled BPO company is rapidly recruiting across Davao to meet growing client demand

iQor, a managed services provider of customer engagement and technology-enabled BPO solutions, announced today the expansion of its Davao call center, as well as the launch of a new center in the Davao Park District.

“iQor is looking forward to growing in the City of Davao,” said Senior Vice President Operations for iQor Philippines, Rod Hoddinott. “The City is an ideal region thanks to its highly proficient workforce and educated talent pool. It will remain one of our fastest growing regions as we work with clients to solve complex problems across a variety of channels.”

The new expansions in Davao are part of iQor’s 2019 growth trajectory that will bring in over 5,000 new jobs across the Philippines by the end of the year. Expanding by 70,000 square feet across the two locations, iQor has modernized its current center with a new recruiting space and expanded breakroom and game area. The newly-built center houses 1,200 call center seats and another state-of-the-art recruiting center. iQor considers Davao’s local government and community exceptional partners and has plans for further expansion in 2020.

To meet client demand, iQor has been actively recruiting over 2,000 new employees across Davao and will continue to recruit through the end of the year.

“We’re on a mission to bring jobs close to home across Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao,” said Senior Vice President Operations for iQor Philippines, Saurabh Bhaskar. “Our Davao employees enjoy effortless commutes and access to a variety of amenities within walking distance of our contact centers.”

iQor was recently nominated at the 2019 Asia CEO Awards for Diversity Company of the Year and was recognized for its commitment to the Philippines business community and job creation through its first place award for Best Company of the Year Outside National Capital Region at the 2018 International ICT Awards.

iQor operates in multiple locations throughout Dasmariñas, Davao, Iloilo, Talisay, Bacolod, Santa Rosa, Fairview, Metro Manila, and Clark.

To learn more about growing your career at iQor, please visit: www.iqor.com/careers.

About iQor

iQor is a managed services provider of customer engagement and technology-enabled BPO solutions. With 45,000 employees in 9 countries, we partner with many of the world's best-known brands to deliver aftermarket product and customer support solutions that span the consumer value chain, from customer care and receivables management to product diagnostics and repair services. Our award-winning technology, logistics, and analytics platforms enable us to measure, monitor, and analyze brand interactions, improve business processes, and find operational efficiencies that lead to superior outcomes for our partners across the customer and product life cycles. For more information, please visit us at www.iqor.com or follow us at www.twitter.com/iqor.

Running Tips from Coach Rio

Is it your first time running? Are you worried about sustaining injuries or running out of breath even before you can reach the finish line?

Fear not as international marathoner and RUNRIO, Inc. president Rio de la Cruz shares his expertise with beginner runners in preparation for Maxicare MAXIFEST: Live Your Best Life, Maxicare’s biggest health and wellness event.

Whether you are a rookie runner or a seasoned health enthusiast, here are some pointers from Coach Rio that can help you gear up for the race:

Remember to warm-up. Aside from increasing your heart rate, a good warm-up is important because it makes your muscles flexible and gives enough oxygen to endure the physical activities you'll be doing. This will prevent your body from feeling stiff and sore after running. You can get ready by jogging or walking briskly for 20 to 30 minutes before the actual run.

Listen to your body. Push but don't force – that is what your mindset should be when running. If you are just a beginner, it is okay if you won't be able to run as far or as fast as other runners. When you feel your feet or the side of your torso hurting, take time to stop or slow down.

Learn proper running footstrike. According to Coach Rio, the way you plant your feet on the ground makes all the difference. There are three common running footstrikes: heel style, where your heel hits the ground first; the forefoot style, where you run on the ball of your foot; and the midfoot style, where most of your foot hits the ground at once – this is the most neutral running footstrike because it balances out your weight.

Try out some functional exercises. Functional training is a way to strengthen the body by doing exercises that mimic everyday movements just like lifting groceries or walking up the stairs. These exercises play a crucial role in boosting endurance, improving balance and posture, and enhancing strength and agility.

For this year’s MAXIFEST, the country’s leading HMO has partnered with RUNRIO, Inc., one of the premiere race organizers in the country, for the Maxicare MAXIFEST run which features different running courses and distances for all sorts of runners. There will also be a Maxicare Market, a one-stop shop for ready-to-eat plant-based alternatives.

The highlight of Maxicare MAXIFEST 2019 will be the attempt to set a new Guinness World Record that aims to help support the children of Kythe Foundation, the beneficiary of the event. Kythe Foundation, Inc. is a non-profit, non-stock organization aimed towards improving the quality of life among hospitalized children with cancer and other chronic illness.

Registration to Maxicare MAXIFEST is ongoing. Simply visit https://www.runrio.com/race/registration/maxifest-2019. For more info, log on to https://www.maxicare.com.ph or https://www.facebook.com/maxicarehealthcarecorp/.


Maxicare Healthcare Corporation: One of the pioneers in the health maintenance organization (HMO) industry was established in 1987 by an esteemed group of doctors and businessmen with the vision to deliver a better healthcare system. Three decades later, Maxicare has progressed into becoming the No. 1 HMO* in the country, continuously providing comprehensive healthcare programs via its wide network of medical providers and strengthened customer support.

Maxicare has more than 1.2 Million Members, more than 56,000 affiliated Doctors, more than 1,000 affiliated Hospitals and Clinics, 3,800 Dental providers, 8 Primary Care Centers and 13 Helpdesks, 9 Satellite Offices, 5 Exclusive Wings.

Beat Holiday Stress with RedDoorz 499 Promo

The holiday fever is on! Mall sales, Christmas tiangges and bazaars are up and Chtistmas shopping is on everyone’s mind.

It’s easy to get stressed even just by thinking of how to navigate through the hustle and bustle of the days ahead, how to survive the horrendous traffic and get all one’s Christmas errands done.

RedDoorz, the Philippines’ No. 1 affordable hotel chain and Southeast Asia’s largest, fastest-growing, technology-driven hotel management company, may just have a good solution. For the month of October, RedDoorz is offering rooms at Php 499 for overnight stay at selected RedDoorz hotels nationwide.

This means..

1. You can rent a room to serve as “battle station” while you shop till you drop.

Shopping and walking with all those bags and packages in your arms can be really uncomfortable, plus the chances of you dropping or missing a package or two increases with each new purchase. You wish you could have a place to leave your bags so you can free your hands and do more “battles” at store counters and tiangge queues.

Why not check into a nearby RedDoorz hotel with a 499 Promo? You can deposit all your stuff while you go out and “shop pa more”, maybe even grab a bite or drink in between. You can rest assured that all your belongings will be safe. You can even grab some snooze time if you want.

2. You can beat the traffic with an overnight stay at an affordable but clean and comfy hotel.

         

The MMDA says traffic is going to get even worse, thanks to Holiday mall sales, night markets and tiangges. A lot of people decide to let the traffic subside by staying at restos or roaming around malls a little bit longer. Only to find out that a thousand other mall-goers are thinking the same thing. The result? You all get caught in the jam, and the traffic is still heavy even up to midnight.

Bypass the stress and the traffic. Check your RedDoorz app and look for the nearest RedDoorz hotel. Book a room and let the thought of the traffic melt away as you enjoy a warm shower, savor the clean sheets and treat yourself – yes, the family too! -- to a relaxing overnight stay. At very affordable rates.

         

3. You can cook up a quick, low-budget Barkada Party and save big bucks.         

It’s hard to find a get-together place this time of year. Restaurants are fully booked, bars are crowded and event places are too expensive. Instead of looking for a costly place and spending lots of money on food and beverages, why not hold your cozy Christmas party at a nearby RedDoorz? You’ll get a different vibe, lots of time to chill, and while you’re on a low budget theme, you can ditch the fancy foods and just party on chips, finger foods, and drinks.

4. You can have a happy, cost efficient Holidays.

So for the Christmas season, don’t be afraid to pursue your dream holiday staycation. Celebrate Paskong Pilipino with family and friends anytime, anywhere in the Philippines. RedDoorz’s affordable hotel rates – even those not included in the 499 Promo -- lets you experience and enjoy travel as much as you want, near or far. RedDoorz now has 200 partner hotels all over the Philippines from way up north in Baguio, to Pampanga, Metro Manila, Tagaytay and Palawan all the way down south to Cebu, Iloilo, Dumaguete, Bacolod, Tacloban, Bohol, Davao, Cagayan De Oro and Boracay. Your best Christmas celebration yet could be just a RedDoorz away.

Download the RedDoorz app on Google Play Store and App Store to find your perfect location this Holiday season.

YOUR DREAM HOLIDAY GETAWAY IS JUST A REDDOORZ AWAY

It's the ‘Ber months and it’s time to plan that holiday getaway with friends or family. What's holding back most people from going all out to make their dreams get real is budget concerns. Now, RedDoorz with its all-out traveller perks and budget-friendly rates will make this the most memorable holiday vacay ever.

This Holiday Season, why not target these new places where RedDoorz has opened up and making a big difference in the travel scene?

Davao

If your dream vacay is a nature trip, with some history, exotic scenery, shop-till-you-drop shopping and glorious, inexpensive food, mark Davao for your next adventure.

The Crocodile Park, the Philippine Eagle sanctuary, the Davao Butterfly House, Eden Nature Park and Resort, zipline adventures and more, are what make Davao a heaven on earth for thrill-seekers and adrenaline-junkies. Climb the summit of the “King of the Philippine Peaks,” Mt. Apo and get a 360-degree view from the country’s highest peak. Or go island-hopping and take a dip in the waters of world-class beaches.

Vacations are never complete without feasts. Enjoy native Dabawenyo dishes like sinugbang tuna (grilled tuna), inato (grilled chicken), pasayan (deep-fried shrimp), kinhason (baked scallops), and imbaw (clam soup). Sample their pomelo and durian products ranging from fresh fruit to candies to ice cream and shake. There are 22 RedDoorz hotels in the heart of this big city that will be your launch pad for your holiday adventure.

Palawan

For indelible memories, Palawan is Ground Zero for you. The natural beauty of its beaches, rivers and caves plus the tropical vibe that this island brings will mesmerize you.

Here’s where you’ll find its most popular attraction – the Puerto Princesa Underground River, the world’s longest navigable underground river – that has made it one of the New 7 Wonders of the World.

The Ihawig River is a perfect place to commune with nature and just feel good to be alive. A visit to this historic river will not be complete unless you experience its most famous tourist attraction, firefly watching.

And to complete your magical experience in Palawan, experience the sands of the popular Honda Bay. You can use the site as a jump-off place for a lot of other islands to travel to. Choose from any of 13 RedDoorz hotels in Palawan to be nearest the island attraction you want best.

Tagaytay

Sometimes you don’t need to go far to escape the stress of the city. Only a few hours away from the noise of Manila, you can find solitude and a much-needed break whenever you want.

Enjoy the City’s varied attractions, from the mind challenging and jaw-dropping Puzzle Mansion where you can find the most extensive collection of Jigsaw Puzzles in the world. The lady who completed all the 2D, 3D and 4D puzzles here – some as big as murals – is in the Guinness Book of World Records for the unmatchable number and kinds of puzzles she completed.

Enjoy Tagaytay’s cool breeze and chilly evenings with a romantic dinner or even just a hot sip of healthy Tagaytay Bulalo.

Don’t miss its most famous attraction - the People’s Park in the Sky. It stands at the highest point of Tagaytay and lets you have a 360-degree view of the surrounding landscape, the best vantage point to see Taal Lake and Volcano. If you want rides and kiddie adventures, visit the Sky Ranch for rides and panoramic views. You can find the best branded items at outlet stores in Sta.Rosa where you’ll find quality, outlet-priced gifts to give for the holiday season.

RedDoorz at the Ridge, Mahogany and Sta. Rosa are all just minutes away from all the best Tagaytay landmarks.

But whatever location you choose, booking your RedDoorz hotel will be easy as pie because the RedDoorz App is your go-to companion for your discovery adventure. This user-friendly, 100% safe app allows you to compare hundreds of hotels, get real time prices, read traveller reviews so you can plan your trip in detail. Once you’re there, RedDoorz will pamper you with free Wifi, clean beds, clean sheets, free toiletries, unlimited water and a pleasant experience – all for very affordable rates. Even paying is easy! You can use credit cards, Dragonpay or pay-at-hotel without need for credit card guarantee.

Just one RedDoorz away should also mean that entire discovery, booking experience is just “one-app” away and few clicks

So for the holidays, don’t be afraid to pursue your adventure. There are RedDoorz Hotels - RedDoorz, RedDoorz Plus or RedDoorz Premium - that fits your budget. You’ll be glad to know that a RedDoorz Hotel is just “one app and a few clicks away” in whatever city you choose.

Hospitality Startup RedDoorz Raises US$45 Million to Cement Its Leadership Position in Southeast Asia

Singapore, 29 July 2019 – RedDoorz, Southeast Asia’s largest and fastest-growing hotel management and booking platform, announced today the successful fundraise of US$45 million in a Series B round. The Singapore-based startup has operations across more than 80 cities in four countries in Southeast Asia, namely Singapore, Indonesia, the Philippines and Vietnam and operates more than 1,200 budget hotels and properties.

The new round of funding was led by Chinese venture capital firm Qiming Venture Partners alongside Jungle Ventures and its network of limited partners. The round also includes new investors MNC Group (the leading media company in Indonesia) and saw continued support from Susquehanna International Group, Hendale Capital, International Finance Corporation and others. The company intends to use the new amounts to aggressively pursue growth strategies and further increase its lead in the region’s hospitality segment.

In the Philippines RedDoorz garnered over 150 properties in over 10 cities within just one year of operation. Besides Metro Manila, Cebu, Pampanga, Tagaytay and Davao, new areas have been opened up in Bacolod, Iloilo, Palawan and Baguio, with over 3 million customers served.

Amit Saberwal, founder and CEO of RedDoorz, said: “Our growth in 2018-2019 has been exponential. It has been such an important period for us as we were able to set the pace and establish new industry benchmarks in the affordable hospitality segment in Southeast Asia. We are still deeply committed to our vision of empowering the local hospitality owners and connecting them with a growing base of customers who are using our platform to discover new destinations and travel more. The journey is just beginning for us and we are very excited about becoming the go-to-choice for quality, predictable and standardised accommodations in the region”.

Helen Wong, a partner with Qiming Venture Partners, said of the new investment, “We have seen the trend of budget hotel chains in China about 15 years ago, and believe that standardized accommodation at affordable prices will appeal to consumers and business travelers in SE Asia too. As online penetration of the travel industry grows, RedDoorz will be a key beneficiary with the most extensive network of hotels in the region. The company has executed well to become number 1, delivering strong value to hotel owners in user acquisition, technology and customer service. We look forward to working together with them and sharing our learnings from the China market”.

Commenting on the new strategic partnership and investment with RedDoorz, MNC Group President Director David Fernando Audy said, “MNC is delighted to have the opportunity to participate in this funding round. We believe the company’s track record in the online accommodation booking and hotel management is a brilliant solution for the independent hotel owners across Indonesia and provides great value for mass market nationwide customers. RedDoorz has a scalable business model and a practical solution for the fast-growing online travel booking Industry, especially in South East Asia. We will support RedDoorz to grow the brand in Indonesia and overseas."

Anurag Srivastava, co-founder and managing partner of Jungle Ventures, said of the series B raise: “We are proud to reiterate our support for RedDoorz, on its mission to deliver quality accommodations for Southeast Asia. RedDoorz has consistently outcompeted its rivals and over-delivered on the expectations of all stakeholders, in building this business. We look forward to RedDoorz's continued success and value-creation for the region.”

RedDoorz has also recently announced that it is on track to achieve one million occupied room nights per month by year-end. As of July 2019, RedDoorz is growing five times year-on-year and it has already reached 500,000 occupied room nights, an industry-first in Southeast Asia’s travel and hospitality category.

About RedDoorz

RedDoorz is Southeast Asia’s largest and fastest-growing, technology-driven hotel management company offering affordable accommodations for everyone. With a vision to enable people to travel more and provide an affordable reliable stay in all major cities and destinations across the region, RedDoorz is disrupting the hospitality industry by transforming the fragmented supply inventory into branded, standardised accommodations and leveraging its mobile app and digital channels to drive strong consumer demand.

The company was founded in 2015 by a team of senior executives with deep experience in the online travel and hospitality industry and has grown into a regional powerhouse with operations in Indonesia, Singapore, the Philippines and Vietnam. The firm has been growing by five times year-on-year.

As part of the RedDoorz brand network, hotel owners are able to grow their businesses and increase revenues while streamlining their operations. RedDoorz’s solutions help partners manage distribution, pricing, marketing, customer experience and technology solutions – offering an end-to-end platform powered by an advanced technology infrastructure. For more information, please visit www.reddoorz.com.

Reddoorz Makes Traveling Fun, Easy and Oh-So-Affordable

Current trends in traveling have drastically changed over the years. More and more people are looking for ways to start an adventure without having to shell out a lot of money to visit beaches, tourist spots, and other cultural landmarks, be it in the outskirts of the Philippines or in international territories.

One way to ride the wave of the travel boom is to look for affordable airfare and budget-friendly hotels.

Thankfully, Reddoorz, the hotel management and booking platform, has opened up opportunities for both local travelers and foreign tourists to find and live in comfortable, well-appointed hotels that cost only a fraction of the cost of five-star hotels.

The Reddoorz travel app – downloadable on the Google Play Store and App Store – has helped drive the travel fever, putting booking and access to affordable accommodations all over the Philippines at one’s fingertips. The Reddoorz app has consistently placed among the top 5 travel apps of choice, but climbed to Number 1 as of July 24, 2019.

With the help of the app and avid consumer usage, RedDoorz has enlivened the travel scene, accommodating tourists and travelers in over 150 affordable accommodations in over 10 cities in the Philippines. Reddoorz hotels can be found in the busy streets of Metro Manila, Cebu, and Pampanga to bustling tourist spots like Tagaytay and Davao,. The technology-driven company has caught the attention of travel-hungry people who are always on-the-go, letting them know that there is a best quality affordable hotel available at practically any time of the year, letting them save money as they experience big adventures. No need to postpone travel plans until after the usually big amount allocated for travel has been saved or earned.

It’s a “fly now, pay now” experience with Reddoorz. Lodging costs are so affordable, anyone can travel every time the travel bug bites. Furthermore, travelers will be able to allocate a portion of their money for other things like food, transportation, pasalubongs, and fun activities instead of spending a big chunk of the budget on lodging. The good news is, today’s budget hotels place a premium on comfort and convenience as well.

To make sure that not only tourists benefit, but the whole hotel industry as well, RedDoorz has partnered with smaller hotels and apartelles in various cities and key provinces to perk up the tourist activity in more locations.

So now, if the impulse hits to watch and swim with the whale sharks in Cebu, bask in the beaches of Palawan, see the century-old Spanish churches and houses in Iloilo, grab a bite of the famous Chicken Inasal in Bacolod, embark on a food trip in Pampanga, feel the cold air of the City of Pines or Tagaytay, or simply hang out in Manila, there’s always a range of properties to choose from to turn all that into reality. The Reddoorz App makes all that happen right when it’s wanted in the easiest possible way. Just choose the destination, find the Reddoorz hotel there and start packing.

Now crossing out target destinations from one’s bucket list is easy as pie.

Maxicare Makes Healthcare More Accessible to Ilonggos

Healthcare Corporation, the country’s leading healthcare provider, recently established its newest health pod in Startek Philippines, Inc., a call center and BPO in Iloilo, to ensure better access to healthcare services for its employees. The latest health pod is a fully automated system that manages patient-queuing, and makes gathering of initial vital signs quick, accurate, and hassle-free. It offers convenient and time-saving way for employees to get their LOA (letter of authorization). The latest Maxicare health pod is located at Two Global Center, Megaworld Blvd, Mandurriao, Iloilo City. In photo (L-R): Maxicare senior assistant vice president and group head of corporate sales Fiona Lava-Victoria, chief operating officer Nelissa Badal, president and CEO Christian Argos, Startek global COO Peter Martino, Startek Philippines COO Parikshat Nagpal, and Startek Philippines human resource vice president Ana Maria Magsaysay.

For more information, visit www.maxicare.com.ph.